In 2024, the global average cost of a data breach reached an all-time high of $4.88 million — a 10% increase from the previous year. Secure solutions like mobile device authentication are just one approach to lowering these costs.
What is mobile authentication? Simply put, it involves verifying a user's identity using a mobile device along with one or more authentication methods to ensure secure access.
In this post, we’ll explore why mobile authentication is essential, its best practices, and how Plivo’s Verify API makes the process easy and cost-effective.
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Optimize mobile authentication for every customer
How you implement mobile device authentication depends on the user’s context. Let’s look at three examples to understand it better.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) or push notifications during login
Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security by requiring users to provide an additional piece of information beyond their password. In addition to their password, users may need to enter a security token, like an OTP. This extra layer helps protect the account against unauthorized access.
Users who log into your application can either enter an OTP or receive a push notification to approve or deny the login attempt. The first scenario adds an extra security layer, while the second provides a smoother, friction-free user experience.
Implementation tips:
- Consider the user experience and your security needs when selecting an authentication factor.
- Pair a password with a mobile-based one-time passcode (OTP) sent via SMS, voice, or generated by an authenticator app.
For even stronger internal authentication, implement MFA with biometric data or physical tokens.
Biometric mobile authentication for high-value transactions
Biometric authentication adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for fraudsters to intercept or misuse the OTP. This means users can confidently conduct high-value transactions knowing their data is secure, all while enjoying a smooth user flow. It’s a win-win for both the user and the business.
Implementation tips:
- Use biometric authentication for sensitive actions like changing payment methods or accessing account information.
- Implement a biometric system depending on the capabilities of the user's device. Use fingerprint recognition on devices supporting it and facial recognition on those with sensors.
- Prompt users periodically to re-enroll their biometric data after a software update.
Adaptive authentication for viewing or managing sensitive data
Adaptive authentication enhances security by adjusting the authentication requirements based on the context of the access attempt, such as the location or device used.
So, if a customer tries to access sensitive information from an unfamiliar device or unusual location, they may be required to undergo additional verification such as receiving an OTP on their mobile device or confirming their identity via a secondary email.
Implementation tips:
- Choose an authentication provider offering adaptive authentication capabilities such as Auth0, Microsoft Azure, etc.
- Identify risk levels and triggers such as unusual locations, unknown devices, or unusual access times.
- Implement context-based policies such as requiring additional OTP verification or biometric checks for new device access, or using MFA and real-time fraud detection during high-risk transactions.
Why implement mobile authentication
Without mobile authentication, unauthorized individuals easily breach your systems, leading to potential data theft. However, the benefits of implementing a mobile authentication system go beyond preventing unauthorized access.
Increased customer retention
Improving mobile authentication also improves customer retention.
Alex Vasylenko, a tech entrepreneur and founder of The Frontend Company, witnessed a 15% customer retention rate increase and a 25% successful logins after implementing mobile authentication.
Alex noted, “We also saw a 30% drop in account-related support queries. Mobile authentication has positively impacted our customer experience and retention.”
Fewer compliance risks
Mobile authentication is your first line of defense against hefty fines due to noncompliance. After all, failing to meet the standards set by data protection laws could result in a fine of up to €20 million, or 4% of your annual revenue, whichever is higher. With mobile authentication, you're saving your business from costly compliance issues.
Protect your company’s reputation
It’s not just about the immediate financial fallout — data breaches can seriously damage your company’s reputation. When your company’s security is compromised, customers lose trust in your brand, damaging your customer loyalty and market position. In fact, 94% of companies acknowledge that customers won’t buy from them if they feel their data isn’t secure.
Strong mobile authentication keeps your business’s image intact and makes sure your customers feel secure and valued.
Reduced operational costs
Security incidents have high operational costs, including breach investigations, remediation, and extra customer support. These costs can quickly add up and drain your resources, distracting you from your core business activities. With strong mobile authentication methods, you can avoid these extra costs and keep your focus on growing your business.
Implement mobile authentication with Plivo Verify API
To make the most of your mobile authentication system, choose a solution that keeps your implementation and additional costs low. Plivo excels in this area.
With Plivo’s Verify API, you only pay for what you use — SMS and voice OTPs. There are no extra costs for authenticating messages, and Plivo provides pre-registered numbers with no hidden fees or monthly charges. This means more savings and fewer worries about unexpected expenses.
It also simplifies compliance by eliminating regulatory fees. Plivo Verify includes Fraud Shield at no extra cost. Fraud Shield defends against increasing risks like SMS pumping fraud while you provide a smooth authentication process for your users.
To top it off, Plivo’s pre-approved message templates are designed for maximum impact and can cut your implementation time by up to 90%. This also helps in quicker launches and quicker time to market for the customer.
Looking for a reliable mobile authentication system that doesn’t compromise user experience? Request a trial to see if Plivo is the right fit.
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